Alopecia areata

Alopecia areata is a condition that causes round patches of hair loss. It can lead to total hair loss.

Pus-filled lesions (pustules) are unusual in alopecia areata, but can occur, as in this picture. The pustules are infected where medication was injected into the area.

Hair loss is referred to as alopecia. Patchy hair loss on the scalp is called alopecia areata. Complete scalp hair loss is alopecia totalis. Loss of all body hair is called alopecia universalis.

Hair loss is referred to as alopecia. Patchy hair loss on the scalp is called alopecia areata. Complete scalp hair loss is alopecia totalis. Hair loss from the entire body, including the eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair, is alopecia universalis.

This picture shows alopecia areata, under treatment. The hair loss is being treated with anthralin, which causes the brownish hyperpigmentation and can induce hair regrowth. It is very unlikely regrowth will occur when hair is lost along the scalp margin (ophiasis).

Causes

Alopecia areata is thought to be an autoimmune condition. This occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys healthy body tissue.

Some people with this condition have a family history of alopecia. Alopecia areata is seen in men, women, and children. In a few people, hair loss may occur after a major life event such as an illness, pregnancy, or trauma.

Symptoms

Hair loss is usually the only symptom. A few people may also feel a burning sensation or itching.

Alopecia areata usually begins as 1 to 2 patches of hair loss. Hair loss is most often seen on the scalp. It may also occur in the beard, eyebrows, pubic hair, and arms or legs in some people.

Patches where hair has fallen out are smooth and round in shape. They may be peach-colored. Hairs that look like exclamation points are sometimes seen at the edges of a bald patch.

If alopecia areata leads to total hair loss, it often occurs within 6 months after symptoms first start.

Exams and Tests

The health care provider will examine you and ask about your symptoms, focusing on areas where you have hair loss.

A scalp biopsy may be done. Blood tests may also be done to check for autoimmune conditions and thyroid problems.

Treatment

If hair loss is not widespread, the hair will often regrow in a few months without treatment.

For more severe hair loss, it is not clear how much treatment can help change the course of the condition.